Nothing says love at first bite quite like this Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe. With its creamy, garlicky parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s no wonder this dish has earned such a romantic name. Whether you’re making it for a special date night or just a comforting family dinner, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to make the best Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, including ingredient variations, expert tips, and the perfect side dishes to serve with it. Get ready to fall in love with this rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal!
Chicken and Shrimp Pasta – If suggesting seafood alternatives or additions.
What is Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the story behind the name.
Marry Me Chicken is a creamy, garlicky chicken dish made with sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and a luscious heavy cream sauce. It’s rumored that after tasting this dish, anyone would be tempted to propose! The pasta version takes this delicious recipe one step further by combining it with perfectly cooked pasta for an even heartier meal.
Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
To make this creamy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s everything you need:
Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry – Could be useful in a section about quick and easy chicken meals.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) – Sliced in half lengthwise for faster cooking
- Salt & black pepper – To season the chicken
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and depth of flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra garlicky goodness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken
- 2 tablespoons butter – To make the sauce extra rich
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The key to flavor-packed sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of heat
- 1 cup chicken broth – Helps build the sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a creamy, silky texture
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated – Adds savory depth to the sauce
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – The secret ingredient for a tangy, sweet flavor
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A mix of dried herbs for balance
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti) – Cooked al dente
- Fresh basil or parsley – For garnish
Ingredient Variations:
- Want it healthier? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prefer a spicier kick? Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Make it low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta or chickpea pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Follow these easy steps to create the most delicious, creamy chicken pasta ever!
How to Infuse Chicken with Flavor – Can be linked in a section on marinating and seasoning the chicken.
Preparing the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F).
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Making the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in red pepper flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
Add heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Combining Everything Together
Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet.
Add the drained pasta, tossing everything in the creamy sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot!
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle more parmesan cheese and a dash of black pepper before serving!
Expert Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Want to take your Marry Me Chicken Pasta to the next level? Follow these expert tips for a restaurant-quality dish!
Use High-Quality Ingredients
- Fresh garlic and real parmesan cheese (not pre-shredded) will make a huge difference in flavor.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil have the best taste—just drain them before adding them to the sauce.
Cook Pasta Al Dente
- Slightly undercook your pasta since it will continue to absorb sauce after mixing.
Save Pasta Water for Extra Creaminess
- Adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps create a smooth, velvety sauce.
Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce
- If too thick: Add more chicken broth or pasta water.
- If too thin: Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until it thickens.
Let the Flavors Marry!
- This dish tastes even better after a few minutes of resting, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Variations and Substitutions
Love customizing recipes? Here are some fun variations to try:
Make It Healthier
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Swap butter for olive oil to cut down on fat.
Try whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
Spice It Up!
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Stir in a spoonful of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Add More Protein
Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
Toss in shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
Boost the Veggies
Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Stir in roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Pro Tip: Want a low-carb version? Serve the sauce over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta!
What to Serve with Marry Me Chicken Pasta
This rich, creamy dish pairs well with light and fresh sides to balance the flavors. Here are some perfect pairings:
Garlic Bread – For soaking up the delicious sauce.
Green Salad – A fresh arugula or Caesar salad complements the richness.
Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli work well.
White Wine – A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors.
FAQs About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this creamy, dreamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe!
Why is it called Marry Me Chicken?
The name comes from the idea that this dish is so delicious, it could make someone want to propose! The creamy, garlicky sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and parmesan is truly irresistible.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They stay juicy and add even more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
What’s the best pasta to use?
You can use any pasta you love! Here are some great options:
Fettuccine – Classic and holds the sauce well.
Penne or Rigatoni – Great for soaking up creamy sauce.
Spaghetti – A traditional choice for a comforting dish.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on low heat with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.
Can I freeze Marry Me Chicken Pasta?
It’s best not to freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed. If needed, freeze just the chicken and sauce separately, then cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Marry Me Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a romantic dinner, family meal, or special occasion. With its garlicky parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s no wonder why this recipe has become a viral favorite! Diced Chicken Recipes – Useful if discussing different chicken cuts.
Quick Recap:
One-pan meal – Ready in 30 minutes.
Rich, creamy, and flavorful – A true comfort food.
Easy to customize – Gluten-free, keto, or extra spicy versions available.
Perfect for date night or family dinners – A dish that impresses every time!